A National Consultation is set for January 16, 2025, at Suva Grammar High School Hall, where various stakeholders will gather to discuss the Government’s proposal to repeal the controversial ‘No Repeat Policy,’ also known as Automatic Progression. This policy allows students to advance to the next grade regardless of their academic performance, raising concerns about its effectiveness.
Fijian Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has highlighted the consultation’s significance, stating that it will provide a platform for diverse voices, including parents, teachers, student representatives, and educational partners, to share their insights and experiences. He noted that engaging this range of stakeholders is essential for achieving equitable policy outcomes.
The motivation for this consultation comes amid alarming statistics from recent Year Eight examinations, where nearly half of the 19,350 registered students failed to achieve passing scores. This figure raises critical questions about the culture of complacency fostered by the existing Automatic Progression system, leading students to feel less compelled to strive for academic success since their promotion is guaranteed.
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), the consultation seeks to evaluate both the positive and negative impacts of the No Repeat Policy. The primary objective is to ensure students attain the necessary competencies at each educational level before advancing, thereby reinforcing educational standards and accountability.
Radrodro and other political leaders, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, argue for a more rigorous educational system that accommodates different learning paces. They believe the option for students to repeat grades when necessary could better support those who are struggling, ensuring they master the subjects before moving forward.
The forthcoming National Consultation represents a constructive opportunity for stakeholders to voice their perspectives, potentially paving the way for reforms that enhance student achievement and engagement. There is optimism that this initiative will lead to meaningful changes in the educational landscape of Fiji, ultimately ensuring that all students receive a quality education tailored to their needs, setting the foundation for a brighter future.
This initiative reflects a commitment from Fiji’s leadership to adapt educational policies to better meet the diverse needs of learners, showing promise for the enhancement of the country’s education system.
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